New Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS) Updates to Become Mandatory on 1st October 2026
As the UK electrical industry evolves, regulatory frameworks must adapt to ensure safety and technical integrity. The most significant upcoming shift is the update to the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS), which introduces new mandatory requirements for individual competence. While the framework was updated in October 2024, the ultimate deadline for full compliance is 1st October 2026.
This blog post provides an informative overview of the changes, the specific technical areas affected, and what electrical companies and “employed persons” must do to prepare.
Understanding the EAS: The Industry Benchmark
The Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS) is the central framework that defines the minimum standards for electrical businesses in the UK. Used by certification bodies like NICEIC and NAPIT, it determines who is considered “competent” to carry out, supervise, and certify electrical work.
Following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and subsequent reviews of the built environment, there has been an industry-wide push toward greater accountability. The latest EAS revisions represent a fundamental shift: moving away from a model where a firm relies on a single “Qualified Supervisor” (QS) toward a model of individual mandatory competence.
The Shift to Individual Competence
In the past, many firms operated with one Qualified Supervisor overseeing several operatives. Under the new EAS requirements, this “supervision-only” model is being tightened for high-risk and specialised work.
From October 2026, “employed persons” – a term that includes PAYE staff, subcontractors, agency workers, and sole traders – must demonstrate their own individual competence through recognised qualifications and experience for specific categories of work.
1. Strengthened Rules for Periodic Inspection and Testing
Periodic Inspection and Testing (often resulting in an Electrical Installation Condition Report or EICR) is one of the most safety-critical aspects of the trade. The updated EAS clarifies that it is no longer sufficient for a business to simply “have a tester.”
By October 2026, any individual carrying out or responsible for periodic inspection and testing must meet three distinct criteria:
- A Recognised Level 3 Qualification: This includes the City & Guilds 2391-52 (Initial and Periodic) or 2391-51, or an equivalent approved qualification.
- Two Years’ Practical Experience: Individuals must provide evidence of at least two years’ experience specifically in the field of periodic inspection and testing.
- CPD Records: Ongoing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) must be documented to show that the individual’s knowledge remains current with the latest BS 7671 amendments.
2. The New “Low Carbon” Work Categories
Perhaps the most significant addition to the EAS is the introduction of four new mandatory work categories. As the UK moves toward Net Zero, the complexity of “prosumer” installations (where a home both consumes and generates power) has increased.
The following are now formal categories under the EAS:
- Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment (EVCE): Both domestic and commercial installations.
- Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems: Domestic and “other than dwellings.”
- Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS): Battery storage technology.
- Micro Wind Turbines.
The Qualification Mandate
Previously, many installers entered the EV or Solar markets using short, non-regulated manufacturer training.
From 1st October 2026, manufacturer training alone will not suffice for CPS registration. Installers and supervisors must hold a formal Level 3 Award (e.g., City & Guilds 2921-34 for EV, or specific L3 Awards for Solar and Battery Storage).
These qualifications are designed to ensure installers understand not only the “how-to” of a specific product, but the broader regulatory requirements for earthing arrangements, load management, and fire safety.
3. The End of “Grandfather Rights” for Renewables
It is important to note that while “Route 4” (older qualifications) may still be valid for general electrical work, there are no “grandfather rights” for the new low-carbon categories. Even if a contractor has been installing solar panels for several years, they will likely be required to obtain the formal Level 3 qualification by the 2026 deadline to maintain that specific “scope” on their CPS registration.
Timeline for Implementation
The transition period is now almost complete.
- October 2024: The “Awareness Phase.” Scheme assessors (NICEIC, NAPIT, etc.) began reviewing staff qualifications during annual visits.
- October 2025: The “Improvement Phase.” As of this date, if a business did not meet the new standards, assessors may officially document this as an “Improvement Action” or “Development Point” in an assessment report.
- 1st October 2026: The “Hard Deadline.” This is the date the requirements become mandatory. Failure to hold the required qualifications or provide evidence of experience may result in the removal of specific work categories from a firm’s scope of registration.
The Role of Amendment 4 (BS 7671:2018)
Coinciding with these changes is the expected release of Amendment 4 of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations in 2026. This amendment is anticipated to include new chapters on stationary battery storage and revised rules for Power over Ethernet (PoE). The EAS 2026 deadline ensures the workforce is qualified to safely comply with these increasingly technical regulations.
What Should Businesses Do Now?
Waiting until mid-2026 to address these changes carries risks. Training providers are already warning of potential bottlenecks in course availability as thousands of UK electricians seek to qualify simultaneously.
To ensure a smooth transition, electrical businesses are advised to:
- Conduct a Skills Audit: Review the qualifications of all employed persons and subcontractors. Identify who is performing EICRs or installing low-carbon tech without a formal Level 3 Award.
- Gather Evidence of Experience: Start compiling logs of periodic inspection work to satisfy the “two-year experience” requirement.
- Plan Training Early: Schedule Level 3 courses for Inspection & Testing, EV, and Solar/Battery storage well ahead of the 2026 cutoff.
- Review Technical Reference Documents: Ensure the business has access to the latest IET Codes of Practice for EV, Solar, and Battery systems, as these are now mandatory reference materials for assessment.
How XS Training Can Help You Ahead of the Deadline
We offer industry-leading online training to help you obtain the relevant & required qualifications, ensure your business remains fully compliant, and position yourself to take on the growing number of green-energy opportunities.
Inspection & Testing (C&G 2391-52)
Stay compliant with the new rules for EICRs and periodic testing. Our online course covers both Initial Verification and Periodic Inspection and allows candidates to complete the qualification online, with only the exam held at a centre.
Electric Vehicle Charging (C&G 2921-34)
Meet the new EAS “Low Carbon” requirements for EVCE installations in both domestic and small commercial settings. Following successful completion of the online course, the final exam is invigilated remotely, so learners are not required to attend a training centre to complete their final examination/assessment.
Solar PV & Battery Storage
Secure your future in the renewables market with our comprehensive training for Solar and Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS). These courses are provided in-house at our Training Centre in Leeds.
View Solar & Battery Course Details
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